Period Corsets has always focused on building the most durable, high quality corsets you can find. What many people do not realize is just how comfortable a properly-fitting corset can be. We know how important it is to our clients achieve the historically accurate, period-correct shaping that they require for theatre, cosplay, historical re-enactment or bridal. We also appreciate their need for comfort, whether it be for all day wear on stage for multiple nights, or out on the town.

The key to that unparalleled comfort is in our unique fitting process. All of our styles are available ready to wear, with alteration options as needed. In addition to the alteration features, we offer our clients our custom fitting service.

By starting with a fitting corset, you can try out the styles of your choice to find the best match for your body type. Using 360 degree photos and your supplied measurements, we are able to determine the specific custom changes needed to provide you with the perfect fit. After your online and phone consultation, you will then exchange your fitting corset for your new custom fitted corset made in the fabric of your choice. By providing this service we are able to supply the same hands-on experience of an in-house fitting to our long-distance clients.

How it works:
Order your desired corset style in our Natural colored coutil, in the size that is closest to your measurements. Fitting corsets can be purchased through our website or on our Etsy site. Along with your order, include your measurements for bust, waist, hip and center back nape to waist.
See our video on how to take your measurements here: How To Video- Taking your Measurements

Once you receive your corset:
Try on your corset. Depending on the style, or if this is your first time in a corset, you may need assistance from a willing participant. That's part of the fun!

Lace it up! photo of Tiffany Stairhime courtesy of Just Expressive Photography

Try it on:
For comfort and modesty, you can wear a tank top or t-shirt underneath your corset. Do not wear a bra.You'll want a top in a contrasting color that is form fitting but not constricting (meaning no sports bras ladies!). For bottoms, we recommend a pair of leggings or tights, something form fitting that will provide a good backdrop. We need to be able to clearly see the way your corset is fitting your body.

Try on your fitting corset over a form fitting shirt with no bra

Take photos:
Have a friend help you take 360 degree photos showing the front, side front, side, side back and back. These should be straight forward, top to bottom shots. No need for close-ups unless there is a particular problem area.

email us your 360 photos

Mind the gap:
Along with a clear photo of the back gap, where your corset is laced, we will have you fill out a form with specific measurements of that gap spacing. Using these measurements, and your photos, we are able to determine the exact changes you will need for your perfect fit.

measure the back gap

Email, call or Skype:
We have various ways to communicate. The best and most efficient way is through Skype, as we can clearly see you in your corset and ask questions in real time. If that's not an option, email us your photos and we'll give you a call.

The exchange:
Once we receive your returned fitting corset we go to work building your custom corset. Since this will be your final one, you get the fun of choosing your final fabrics. These could be something basic like our 4 colors of cotton coutil, something elegant like our satins or brocades or something truly unique made from your fabric.

Period Corsets has been providing clients from all backgrounds with the highest quality and most comfortably fit corsets on the market. There are countless corsets out there, but only one you can depend on to have the best fit and quality that will last.

Welcome to the Period Corsets® Blog

Welcome! Period Corsets® is your complete source for historic undergarments and custom costumes. Opera and theatre companies, universities and colleges, movies and TV productions, and lovers of beautiful historic silhouettes buy our corsets, petticoats, skirt supports, and underwear for their productions and private use. Our products are available through our website in a range of sizes, fabrics, and colors; we also custom-design items to meet your specific needs. We design, develop and make all our garments in our Seattle, Washington studio. On this blog we look forward to sharing with you our passion for fine quality sewing, historic silhouettes, meticulous draping and pattern-making, as well as news about new products we are developing. Stay tuned!Period Corsets Home